Pitney acknowledges passing of Dr. Terrence Cole

This past week, we lost one of our own. UAF Professor Emeritus Dr. Terrence Cole passed away Saturday, Dec. 12. The entire university family offers its deepest condolences to Terrence’s wife, Gay Salisbury, brother Dermot and the Cole family. 

Terrence was professor of Northern Studies and History and director of the Office of Public History at UAF, and while he recently retired from teaching, he never retired from life. He lectured, mentored graduate students, and in his honor, the University of Alaska Press published “The Big Wild Soul of Terrence Cole.”  The book featured a collection of essays by twin brother, Dermot, along with friends, colleagues, and students that documented how Terrence impacted them. The essays capture the essence of his spirit and the human experience in Alaska.

He also narrated this short, four-minute video several years ago about the Alaska Flag Song that says so much about his heart, his way with words, and his love for Alaska. You can view it at: https://vimeo.com/472785065.

In reflecting on Terrence’s prolific and amazing life, it is clear that he was beloved by many. We will miss his spirit and great humor.